According to a report by All Nigeria Soccer, Galatasaray have confirmed that Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen sustained a muscle injury during Sunday night’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against DR Congo.
The forward, who started the match, was substituted at the beginning of the second half after appearing to clutch his hamstring late in the first half.
Nigeria eventually lost 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular time, resulting in the Super Eagles missing out on back-to-back World Cup tournaments for the first time since their debut in 1994. Osimhen returned to Istanbul after the game and underwent an MRI scan at the Acıbadem Hospital to determine the extent of the injury.
In an official statement released on Wednesday morning, Galatasaray disclosed that test results showed a moderate strain with bleeding in the left posterior muscle. The club confirmed that treatment has begun immediately but did not specify a timeline for the striker’s recovery.
Osimhen’s injury represents a significant setback for Galatasaray, with the 26-year-old forward in strong form this season, scoring nine goals in 12 appearances across all competitions. His absence is expected to affect the team’s attacking options as they continue their domestic and continental campaigns.
He is also expected to miss the upcoming CAF Awards ceremony, where he is shortlisted for the Player of the Year accolade. Osimhen is one of the three finalists for the prestigious award, alongside Mohamed Salah and Achraf Hakimi